As we were strolling in a small but busy seaside city recently, an older woman took a serious fall on the brick walk. While no one saw the spill, numerous people rushed to help her upon hearing her screaming and seeing her writhing in pain on the ground.

Within seconds, folks were consoling her; volunteering to call 911; jogging into the shops searching for the woman’s friend; reminding her to breathe; obtaining bags of ice and a cup of water. There must have been 10 or 15 people who helped in some way, and many more who offered, before the ambulance arrived.

I was struck by how swiftly, and instinctively, people came forward and came together to support someone they didn’t know and had no responsibility for, save that fundamental and truly compelling one we have for fellow creatures.

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About russtowne

My wife and I have been married since 1979. We have 3 adult children and 4 young grandsons. I manage a wealth management firm I founded in 2003. My Beloved is a Special Education teacher for Kindergartners and First Graders. I'm a published author of 23 books in a variety of genres for grownups and children. In addition to my family, friends, investing, and writing, my passions include reading, watching classic movies, experiencing waves crashing on rocky shores, hiking in ancient redwood forests, and enjoying our small redwood grove and fern garden.